Clothing

Implies the garment has reinforced areas that prevent scuffing and deterioration.

Acrylic

A synthetic fibre that is used in a variety of outdoor wear due to it’s softness and warmth. Typically it is blended to create a fleece fabric as an ideal midlayer.

Aegis

An odourless polymer used on the face fabric of a garment to destroy bacteria at a cellular level.

Agion

An antimicrobial coating made from Silver Ion inserts which break down the cellular walls of bacteria.

Ankle Zips

Zips that reach from the base of legwear items to the ankle, allowing legwear to put on or removed with shoes or boots on.

Aquafoil

Created by Berghaus. A hydrophilic waterproof fabric that utilises a DWR Durable Water Repellent outer treatment on the face fabric.

AQ

A fabric created by Berghaus in 2 levels, AQ2 and AQ2.5.

AQ2

Used by Berghaus. A lightweight, breathable waterproof fabric made with a bicomponent polyurethane coating and a DWR finish.

AQ2.5

Berghaus' waterproof and breathable textile. Created with a polyurethane dry touch coating with micro beads to repel water.

Articulated areas

Pre-shaped areas fo clothing that allow full freedom of movement, without losing coverage.

Anti Microbial Treatments

Sprayed onto the face fabric of a garment to prevent bacteria from forming.

AF

A woven synthetic with a DWR finish.

ATL

Advanced Technology Layer. This is a form of DWR with an increased level
of water and stain repellency for clothes more likley to be subjected
to abrassion, or stains, such as children's outerwear.

BacteriaStat

Marmot's own antimicrobial treatment that is used to remove bacteria as well as odours.

Bamboo

A natural plant which can be used in fabric fibres of outdoor wear. Used to provide softness, increased absorbency as well as antimicrobial functions.

Breathable/Breathability

A fabric’s ability to allow sweat and internal moisture to be released to the outer layers for evaporation.

Blend

A method of using two or more different fabrics or yarns woven together to create a different texture or attribute.

Baselayer

A next-to-skin synthetic layer that is breathable and able to move sweat away from the skin for evaporation.

BeardGuard

A term used by Montane to describe high collar garments that protect the lips and upper neck/chin area.

Berber Pile

An insulating fabric typically used in a jacket or midlayer.

Bobbles

Raised areas on the plam of gloves that provide grip, can also refer to pilling within fleeces and the subsequent appearance.

Brushed inner

A liner that has been created with a brushed or peached fabric to enhance it's softness next to the skin.

Calf skin

A leather created from young cows, designed to be extremely soft and plush to touch.

Carbon Bamboo

Regattas use of bamboo, a natural plant which can be used in fabric
fibres of outdoor wear. Used to provide softness, increased absorbency
as well as anti

Cell wall

Found in bacteria, broken down by anti microbial treatments such as Silver an silver ion technologies.

Chin Guard

Found in jackets and fleeces, a chin guard offers comfort next to the
lips and neck. Usually created from a soft, brushed synthetic.

Cambrelle

Created by Camtex. A lining made from bicomponent fibres and air pockets
that offer abrasion resistance and moisture management. Used in liners.

Conduit

Created by Mountain Hardwear. A breathable, waterproof membrane created
with hydrophilic and hydrophobic molecules. Actively draws moisture and
vapor away from the body.

Cordovan

A leather derived from a horses skin. This is a tougher fabric than
leathers from cows and used for aesthetics reasons due to it's shiny
finish, as well as it's resistance to abrasion.

Coolmax

Made from four channel polyester fibres with irregular shapes and a wide surface area. Extremely high wicking and fast drying.

Closed Cell Foam

A dense way of insulating a garment. Closed cell foam structures are
less resistant to moisture but can be expensive to manufacture.

Canvas

A way of weaving cotton in a plain stitch fashion to create an
inflexible surface built for strength. More resistant to water than
synthetics such as Nylon, yet is heavier in weight. The two fabrics are
usually blended together, or combined in different areas to have the
best abilities from both. Typically used in tents and rucksacks.

CFM (Cubic Feet per Square Metre)

Used to measure levels of windproofing in an item.

Cotton

A natural fabric used in clothes. Fibres of the cotton plant are
woven together to create a natural soft fabric used for comfort and
absorbance.

Cambrelle

Created by Camtex. A lining made from bicomponent fibres and air pockets
that offer abrasion resistance and moisture management. Used in liners.

Conduit

Created by Mountain Hardwear. A breathable, waterproof membrane created
with hydrophilic and hydrophobic molecules. Actively draws moisture and
vapor away from the body.

Contagrip

Used as a sole material in shoes for grip and durability.

Coolmax

Made from four channel polyester fibres with irregular shapes and a wide surface area. Extremely high wicking and fast drying.

ClimaWIND/ClimaPRO

Made by Solomon, these are waterproof and breathable fabrics. Clima Wind also resists wind.

Cordura

A brand name for the method of using Nylon for outdoor wear in a variety of blends, created by DuPont.

Coating

A synthetic film or a membrane which is applied to the face fabric in
varying layers and levels of intensity to provide weatherproofing.

Core Vents

A way of venting without taking a layer off. Self adjustable.

Comfort Control

A quick wicking and breathable fabric from Regatta used for comfort in next to the skin layers such as baselayers and t-shirts.

Continuous fabric construction

Indicates the item, usually shoes or sandals, are formed in one piece for extra durability.

Coolweave

100% cotton, used by Regatta for casual wear.

Cuff Grabs

Rubber areas on a jacket or coat that allow you to pin back the cuffs to
suit your personal arm length and preference. Attached directly to the
jacket.

Dri Lite

Created by Mountain Equipment. Has a hydrostatic head of 7000mm for total waterproofing coverage. Made with Nylon and natural fibres.

Down

The fluffy under feathers of ducks and geese.

Double stitched

The garment has been stitched more than once to provide durability.

DWR

Durable Water Repellent, a coating added to fabrics to allow water to bead off.

Dynamic return

Indicates the garment can ‘bounce back’ into shape.

Dynamic Leg Cut

A trouser style that reduces bulk. Used in insulating garments.

Dry Zone

Lowe Alpine fabric that is used as a baselayer. A fine yarn with an open knit for excellent breathability.

Drawcord

Used in a variety of garments to allow adjustment.

Elastane

A synthetic fibre best known as 'Lycra' used for stretch in clothing. Blended with other fabrics most commonly or can be used alone. Stronger than rubber
per weight.

Breathe used in rucksacs. Perforated EVA is laminated in a honeycomb effect to allow different layers to breathe and allow air release and venting.

e-Vent

A coated breathable membrane made using pores. Sweat avoids the process of sweat being condensed and absorbed into the PU layer as with GORE-Tex

Ergonomically designed

Designed to fit with the shape of your body for the intended purpose.

Full Grain Leather

A shiny surfaced leather, naturally more water-resistant than the layer beneath it, which is then finepolished and tends to repel water.

Fibre Pile

A fabric blend of pile awith curled fibres that lock in insulation, designed for cold conditions. It can be made with wool, nylon or polyester blends, and tends to be more insulating, but less winproof than a fleece counterpart. Typically fibre pile is used as an inner liner or as a midlayer, but can be more expensive than a fleece.

Fill power

A method of measuring the Quality of a natural down, found in insulated garments. The better quality the down, the better it's ability to hold in heat, resulting in a higher fill power. For the best insulation you shoul choose a high fill power, low weight garment.

Expedition suit

An all in one insulated body suit designed for use in Alpine conditions.

Felting

A method of washing wool to enhance its softness.

Flame Resistant

Fabrics that do not melt or drip onto the skin when exposed to extreme heat or fires.

Goat Skin Leather

Goatskin is tanned to create a leather which is soft yet durable, often used in gloves or shoes to add grip.

GORE-Tex

A breathable, waterproof and windproof coated pore based membrane using pores that are on average 20,000 times smaller than a drop of water, and 700 times larger than a water vapour molecule.Classic GORE-Tex comes in a 2 ply or 2 layer construction, but three layer GORE and GORE-Tex XCR versions are available.

Granger’s Extreme Wash

A flouro-chemical and water-based reproofer for DWR coated garments

Hardshell

A waterproof outerlayer. Best suited to poor weather. Typically less breathable than a softshell.

A synthetic form of insulation, with hollow cores to allow heat to loft.

Hollow Foot

Hydrostatic Head

The amount of water pressure a fabric can withstand before it leaks. Expressed as the height of a theoretical column of water required to force water through the fabric. Values above 1'500mm are considered waterproof, and can be as high as 10'000mm for the leading waterproof fabrics like GORE-TEX and eVent. The higher the number the more waterproof the fabric and the longer the waterproof performance should last.

Hydro/dry

Created by Sprayway. A breathable and waterproof fabric with a hydrophyilic coating .

Hydrafort

A synthetic fabric that is waterproof and windproof, used by Regatta. Mainly used in waterproof jackets.

Ilus Core Technology

Ilus Core is a fabric used by Dare 2B that has a way stretch system for flex and motion. Warmth without weight ensures Ilus Core items are easily compressed and quick to dry. Typically used in a mid/base layer in 2 thicknesses.

Interactive

The method of using a jacket and a fleece as a combination item together, zipped in together for a complete layered set. Also known as 3 in 1 of 'Zip In'/'Zipped In'.

Isotex

A waterproof membrane used by Regatta. Typically used as a liner, Isotex offers breathability, windproofing and waterproofing.

Isotex 10000 XPT

A version of Isotex, a waterproof, breathable and windproof fabric. Highly permeable to water vapour allowing perspiration to escape with an added Durable Water Repellent (DWR) outer treatment.

Insulating Layer

A layer designed to keep you warm, this can be a midlayer such as synthetic fleece, or can be used over a midlayer, such as lined and padded gilet.

Internal Seals

A method of constructing a product to ensure a water tight construction.

Internal Security Pocket

Usually a small hidden pocket suitable for storing cash or keys.

Kevlar

A fibre made by DuPont made from a crystalline polymer into a fibre. The yarns of Kevlar are spun and woven, predominantly to make seamless gloves, sleeves or linings. Kevlar has excellent heat and abrasion resistance.

Kevlar Stitching

Threads can be made from Kevlar. Heat an abrasion resistance from the woven yarns makes Kevlar stitching desirable in many products that need to be durable.

Kangaroo Pocket

A pouch pocket that can be accessed from either side. Seen in jackets and midlayers.

MemBrain

Marmot’s own waterproof/breathable fabric with a very high waterproof rating an a PU film layer as well as a DWR coating.

Merino Wool

A merino is a type of sheep, bred for their soft wool and thin fibres to create Merino Wool. When it gets wet a Merino fibre can be extended up to 30% and recover without damage.

Gloves without seperate finger compartments, designed to circualte heat direct from the palm around the hands.

Membrane

A film applied to the face fabric of a garment at the manufacturing stage to offer a variety of protection features such as water repellency or windproofing.

Mesh

A lightweight, venting fabric often used as a way to allow moisture to escape from garments, with no need to remove a layer. Mesh is very lightweight.

Mini Stitch Through Construction

A way of stitching down insulation used within garments in order to hold the down in place for the maximum levels of insulation.

Membrane

A synthetic coating or film which is applied to a garment to offer a variety of protection features, such as a 'breathable membrane' or a waterproof membrane'.

Mid Layer

The second layer in the Layering System, worn over a baselayer, used to provide insulation and trap body heat.A midlayer should be a breathable synthetic. Typically, a fleece is used.

Microfibres

Refers to any fibre with under 10,000m of thread.

Nylon

Nylon is a lightweight polymer set with heat during its creation, with the ability to withstand high temperatures and resist abrasion.

Nikwax Tech Wash

A non-detergent soap that will clean DWR coated fabrics without affecting it's water repellency.

Nikwax TX Direct Wash In

A wax-like elastomer suspended in water to reproof garments.

Nubuck Leather

A full-grain leather finished using a different process to make it cosmetically soft.

Nosquito

Craghoppers own brand of clothing treated with a chemical such as Pyrethoid that kills mosquitoes on contact.

Olephobic

Oil hating, used as a repellent on garments to repel water and oil.

One Pull Adjustment

Refers to a system usually used in hoods where a toggle can be used with one hand to release a hood from hidden to a fixed peak.

Outer shell

The outer layer of a helmet used for safety such as cycling helmets or ski helmets. Created from slim plastic or polycarbonates for strength.

Outdoor System

Also known as OS, this is Regatta's own Polyester/cotton fabric blend, peached for comfort with an inbuilt SPF. Designed to be quick wicking for use in active wear.

Paramo

A breathable waterproof fabric made with a waterproof drop.

Pertex

A close-weave synthetic fibre that is inherently windproof and breathable, but lacking waterproofing. It is DWR treated on the face fabric to improve water resistance.

Parameta

Used in Paramo clothing. A windproof layer created from tightly woven microfibers that are water resistant when treated with Nikwax.

Peached/Peaching

A way of sanding a fabric to create a soft feel and a brushed feel, used in natural fabrics or synthetics/natural blends. Completed with a chemical layer which saturates the fabric to maintain its feeling.

Pig skin leather

A soft leather created from pigs' skin.

Polyamide

A tough quick drying synthetic with a lighter weight than cotton.

Ply

Refers to the amount of layers included in a fabric creation, such as 2 or 3 ply. This can be the face fabric thread count, or refer to additional membranes
and coatings

PU

Poly-Urethane used as a layer of coating on the face fabric of a garment. It is a versatile and abrasion resistant layer that is used to provide waterproofing qualities.

Polartec

A company who make various products including WINDBLOC, POWERSHIELD, THERMALPRO,POLARFLEECE from breathable membranes applied to the face of thermal fabrics to lock in heat.

Polartec 100

The lightest of the polartec breathable fabrics, designed for use during active wear. Made from 100% polyester velour.

Polartec Windbloc

A wind resistant fabric with a polyurethane barrier membrane on the face as well as DWR and insulating layer

Polartec Windpro

A wind resistant fabric created with tight yarn construction for reduced wind chill.

Polarproof

A brand of Nikwax reproofer which provides a DWR finish on garments.

Polarguard 3D

A synthetic polyester, used as an insulating layer. Maintains it’s shape an heat even when wet.

Polyester

A man made polymer, woven alone or in a blend with natural fibres to create a wicking, abrasion resistant fabric.

Powerstretch

Made by Polartec. A 4-way stretched, 2 layered construction fabric to provide warmth and abrasion resistance.

Poncho

A waterproof jacket designed without arms and with one hole for the head. Covers the whole body.

Porelle

Porelle is a manmade synthetic which is both waterproof and breathable. It’s thin construction makes it ideal as a liner fabric.

Pile

A soft fabric made from strands of yarn, designed to be high lofting and soft to touch. Often used in fleece construction as a wool alternative.

Pit Zips

Areas found in jackets or midlayers that allow you to unzip a part of the garment for venting without taking off a layer.

Primaloft

A manmade synthetic insulator from polyester, designed to act like down.

Pre curved

Refers to gloves with curved fingers, designed for use when holding poles or equipment.

Pre Bent

Usually refers to the arms of a garment designed for cycling.

PTFE

Polytetrafluoroethylene,a form of synthetic used in waterproof garments. Also known as ‘Teflon’. Created by DuPont Chemicals.

Quantum

See, Pertex Quantum

Rain Drain

A way of constructing the fabric so that water beads away from exposed skin, usually used on jackets in conjucntion with sealed seams and waterproofed zips.

RET

The level of Water vapour resistance (Resistance to Evaporation of a Textile) A lower RET demonstrates increased levels of breathability in a garment.

Retro Reflective

A way of detailing a garment so that it is reflective and more visible in low light conditions.

Reinforced palms

Also known as a palm patch, refers to gloves with thicker abrassion resistant, gripping fabrics applied to contact areas such as the palm or finger pad areas.

Reflective Piping

Small areas of high visibility colouring applied to a garment.

Ribs

Similar to cuffs, ribs are knitted into a garment to provide ridges that allow it to hold onto the layer it is in contact with. Often used as a cuff closure, or on socks, rib knitted areas sometimes use elasticated fabrics to aid stretch.

Roll Away Hood

A hood that can be packed away into the collar of the jacket.

Safari Hat

A hat with a large brim, typically for use when travelling.

Scotchlite

Made by 3M. A Reflective material.

Sewn through

The lightest, simplest, and cheapest construction of a sleeping bag.

Sewn In

When used for describing tent groundsheets, this refers to those whioch are attached to the flysheet, stopping any possibility of draughts or leaks.

Sealed Seams

A method of stitching seams to prevent leaks and improve waterproofing capabilities.

Silicone Treatment

Applied to natural or syntehtic own in order to prevent clumping, particularly a problem in wet conditions.

Silk

A natural fibre, processed to make an absorbent fabric.

Silver Ion

Used in clothing or equipment as a natural bacteria killing antiseptic property.

Snowproof

The garment contains elements such as sealed seams or a waterproof fabric to prevent snow entering.

Suplex

A light, quick drying yet densely woven nylon that is tougher than cotton and wind resistant.

Silicone

A synthetic often used for grip in the palm of a glove.

Softshell

A highly breathable and often water resistant garment made with stretch woven fabric as an alternative to a hardshell.

Softshell XLT

Regatta’s own brand of softshell fabric, Breathable and wind resistant, made from stretchy yarns.

Softshell XPT

Regattas own design of lightweight softshell fabric.

Softshell XPT Waterproof

Regattas own waterproof softshell fabric.

Snap in connection

A method of attaching a jacket to legwear in the absence of braces.

Sunshade

Regatta’s own term for garments with an inbuilt SPF (Sun Protection Factor).

Stash Pocket

Used in coats for storing essentials such as maps. Can be hidden or external.

Stiffened Peak

A hood with a firm peak for additional protection.

Storm Weave

A Lowe Alpine softshell fabric.

Storm Flaps

Used within jackets over the zip area to prevent external moisture from entering the jacket. Also seen in gaiters.

Stretch Corura

A synthetic made from 96% Cordura Nylon and 4% for flexibility and abrasion resistance.

Stretch Woven Nylon

Nylon with an element of flexibility and motion. Abrassion resistant yet soft to the touch, this is commonly used in the outer layer of garments designed for active sports, such as climbing trousers.

Stretch Panels

Found in abrasion sensitive areas of garments, such as the knees, seat, elbows or chest, depending on the garment's purpose.

Symmetry

Designed for comfort and practicality, the Symmetry is a name of fleece used by Regatta. This has an anti pill finish so it won't bobble, is quick to dry and easy to wash, and is also very soft to touch. Symmetry Fleeces come in a variety of weights and thicknesses.

Synthetics

Man Made fibres used with, or as an alternative to natural fibres. Usually more breathable, weather resistant and easy to care for.

Spandura

A mix of Cordura and lycra to create a stretchy and flexible synthetic.

Tactel

A practically friction free, high wicking fabric used within baselayers for next to the skin comfort.

Taped Seams

A method of joining the fabric that prevents wetness reaching the wearer. Fully taped seams are taped over all joins for complete protection. Critical Taped seams are taped seams in the fabric in areas where wetness will occur, protecting the wearer.

Taslan

A woven synthetic polyester created with compressed air to create a different cosmetic appearance from similar synethtics. Usually blended with nylons to create a durable and water resistant layer, often used in hardshell jackets.

Technical

Used to describe clothing fit for purpose in the outdoors, usually made from synthetics/membrane technology for increased performance, with features (such as breathability/wicking) that allow the garment to perform a duty in strenuous conditions.

Teflon

A form of the polymer, polytetrafluoroethylene. A synthetic, usually used in water repelling garments.

Triple Point Ceramic

A coated ceramic waterproof fabric made by Lowe Alpine used in outerwear.

Tensile Strength

Refers to the strength of fibres within a garment, tested lengthways with varying levels of force until the garment rips.

Thinsulate

A fabric created with a mixture of Polyethylene terephthalate and polypropylene that can retain heat using dense fibres, and resist water whilst remaining bulk free. Thinsulate fibers are 15 micrometres in diameter, thinner than standard polyester fibres.

Thread count

Refers to the number of threads per square inch of a garment. The more threads, the better the abrasion resistance and strength within the product.

Thermolite

A material made from Polyester, designed to be slim yet insulating.

Thermolite Active

A synthetic created with recycled polyester. Highly resistant to abrasion, used in outoor wear that needs to be longlasting an durable.

Thermolite base

A slim fabric used mostly in gloves to provide a thin insulating layer without adding in unnecessary weight. Breathable, but not waterproof.

Three Quarter Length Zips

Zips that extend from the ankle to crotch level for variable ways of venting.

Tricot Knitting

A method of knitting or binding a fabric using a diagonal weave stitch in order to enhance abrassion resistance.

Three Ply GORE

GORE-Tex made in three layers. More durable as there is no friction on the actual membrane and it is completely protected.

Taffeta

A stiff woven syntehtic fabric, which can be piece dyed to create a smooth finish for a liner, or blended with silk to create a very soft fabric. Taffeta is typically used within jackets.

Tech Tee

Berghaus’s own name for a base layer t-shirt created with 100% microfibre polyester denier gradient fabric.

Teklite

100% polyamide fabric used by Rab. Anti UV coatings included in the fabric allow UV rays to be blocked from entering the garment, working in the same way as a sun block does on skin.

Teklite Stretch

A stretch based synthetic fabric with a DWR treatment. Used by Rab.

Terry Knit

A structured, knitted yarn that provides comfort. Often used in garment construction as a liner to increase comfort or as an alternative to a fleece.

Thermal Balance Microfleece

This is Regatta's own fabric that uses high density yarns to create not only a soft finish and a low weight, but a quick drying, breathable layer. Used as an insulating layer, Thermal Balance keeps the fabric smooth, pill free and comfy. Breathable - A garments ability to release moisture and heat. The more breathable a garment, the better it's ability to remove sweat and heat from the inner layers to the outer layers whereby it can be absorbed into the environment.

Triple Point

Lowe Alpine's name for waterproof, breathable fabrics,coated with a membrane and a DWR.

Triple Point Ceramic

A coated ceramic waterproof fabric made by Lowe Alpine.

Thermal Unerwear

Referred to simply as a baselayer garment, a layer of clothing thats sits directly next to the skin

Thermal balance Plus

Used by Regatta, a fleece fabric with an anti pill finish. Also Available in Thermal Balance Loft and Thermal Balance Plus Microfleece versions.

ThermoGuard

A fabric used by Regatta made from synthetic fibres, This of light yet warming, and has a high loft for insulation without the heavy pack weight. Thermoguard also dries quickly, so it is often used in waterproofed items.

T Shirt

Typically a non technical fabric top made from cotton for comfort in periods of non activity.

Thumb Loops

Holes at the cuff to insert thumbs through for increased coverage in cold weather.

Triplepoint Dynamic

A fabric that uses silver ions within it's construction to provide anti microbial properties, breaking down bacteria at a cellular level.

Velour

A soft nap of a fabric made from polyester or a similar synthetic for a velvet like feel. Velour can also be made from cotton, but for cost is typically a manmade fabric.

A closure system that is used to lightly bond 2 fabric areas together. Used commonly in footwear and cuffs of jackets when the use of gloves is expected, for example ski wear.

Venting

A method of self adjusting a garment in order to release moisture, eg with mesh areas, or pit zips. This prevents the need to remove layers, whilst allowing hot air to escape in minimal amounts.

Wet Out

Refers to water repelling garments that don’t have total resistance, leaving them at risk of becoming saturated in heavy weather conditions.

Wind Resistant

The garment is 100% resistant to letting wind permeate with a CFM rating of 0.

Wind Flap

An area incorporated into a collar that prevents wind from entering the garament, similar to a storm flap.

Wind Repellent

Indicates that wind is mostly prevented from entering the garment and repelled from the surface. To be wind repellent, a garment must resist around 75% of wind is. This is measured in a CFM rating, which can vary according to brand.

Windstopper

Made by GORE. Windstopper is a membrane coated fabric constructed from polyester or polyamide in to allow sweat to be released as a breathable layer, whilst also preventing wind from entering by the use of pores that are small enough to vent sweat molecules, but too small to allow wind to permeate.

Wool

An insulating natural fabric made from springy natural yarns. Wool retains around 30% of it's own weight in water before it reaches a wearers skin, however it is slow to dry.

Women Specific

A cut designed for a woman’s shape usually with wider thighs, a narrower waist or a shorter arm length. In harnesses these can be also be used for men with narrow hips

Wicking

Refers to clothes that can move sweat away from the skin in order to keep the wearer dry.

Wrist Leashes

Used in glove construction as a method of connecting gloves to a jacket.

Wrist Straps

Straps attached to walking pole handles, attached to the wrists via loops. These allow control of the poles, allowing them to swing with ease.

Wula

A fabric used by Dare 2B, Wula is a fleece fabric with a soft, lightweight design and a low weight thanks to it's synthetic yarn construction.

XCR (GORE Tex)

A type of GORE-Tex with 25% more breathability than GORE products made with a three layer construction. Highly abrassion resistant and able to hold water away from the skin, XCR is typically blended with taffeta on the inner membrane for insulation in clothes, or use on its own for lightweight breathablity within footwear.

Xert

A Regatta technical feature, used in footwear. X-ert is made using isotex waterproofing features and a lightweight construction.

YKK

A renowned brand of zip, they also produce buttons and poppers used on closures on a variety of garments.

Zip off

A feature of many trousers that can be converted by zips into Capri lengths, or shorts and then reconnected when needed. Usually 'left' and 'right' indicators are used to make the reattachment process simple.

Footwear

Implies the garment has reinforced areas that prevent scuffing and deterioration.

ActiLITE

A material used by Salomon. Highly wicking and breathable.

Acrylic

A synthetic fibre that is used in a variety of outdoor wear due to it’s softness and warmth. Typically it is blended to create a fleece fabric as an ideal midlayer.

Adventure Tech

Also known as Ad Tec, used in Regatta footwear. Offers water resistance via Isotex membranes an ATL treated leather.

Ankle Zips

Zips that reach from the base of legwear items to the ankle, allowing legwear to put on or removed with shoes or boots on.

Approach Shoes

Low cut, flexible shoes or boots suited to low level walking or the approach of a hill.

Arch Panels

Areas in socks that use a seperate fabric along the arch of the sock to provide extra breathability, or extra elastication.

Anatomical

A design that intends to correct a bodily issue, typically seen in footwear or insoles, such as anatomically designed items that can help correct a pronating gait.

Bellows Tongue

A stitched in tongue construction that prevents debris from entering the shoe.

Crampon Compatible

A boot that can attach a crampon to its outer for use in climbing or ice walking.

Crampon pouch

A toughened flap or pouch on the front of a rucksack to allow crampons to be secured without damaging your rucksack.

Compression moulded EVA

EVA moulded in shoes to be shock absorbing and lightweight, using air pockets for cushioning and support.

Contoured Footbed

A curved liner used in footwear that cushions the heel, arch and toes along the body of the shoe, providing overall shock absorption. Also provides anatomical suppport to correct an over or under pronating gait.

Ergonomic Holding System

A system that allows the foot to be encased within the shoe for a stable fit.

Breathe used in rucksacs. Perforated EVA is laminated in a honeycomb effect to allow different layers to breathe and allow air release and venting.

e-Vent

A coated breathable membrane made using pores. Sweat avoids the process of sweat being condensed and absorbed into the PU layer as with GORE-Tex

Ergonomically designed

Designed to fit with the shape of your body for the intended purpose.

Integrated Gaiter

An inbuilt water repellent fabric built into outdoor wear. Typically used in ski wear to provide a barrier against snow.

Inserts

Areas within gloves to line them and add insulation, waterproofing or breathability. Can usually be removed and washed by hand to remove dirt or bacteria.

Instep

The area at the top of the foot, above the arch, which is located unerneath the foot.

Footbeds

An insulating or breathable padded liner spanning the length of footwear, providing comfort for the bulk of your foot. Footbeds come in varying levels of thickness,
either flexible or rigid related to how much support your arch requires, an what the terrain demands. Deep cushioned footbeds are particularly useful for those with orthotic problems.

Gait

The movement of the foot while walking or running, such as neutral prontation, over pronation and supination.

Gaiters

Worn over boots to stop mud, water and debris entering the boots.

Goat Skin Leather

Goatskin is tanned to create a leather which is soft yet durable, often used in gloves or shoes to add grip.

GORE-Tex

A breathable, waterproof and windproof coated pore based membrane using pores that are on average 20,000 times smaller than a drop of water, and 700 times larger than a water vapour molecule.Classic GORE-Tex comes in a 2 ply or 2 layer construction, but three layer GORE and GORE-Tex XCR versions are available.

Granger’s Extreme Wash

A flouro-chemical and water-based reproofer for DWR coated garments

Heel Cup

An area in footwear where the heel sits in a lowered area, proving support and padding. A deep heel cup is a significantly lower area for the heel. Support at the heel can help aid balance and posture.

Heel Seat

Where the heel of the shoe and a liner are joined together.

Hollow Foot

A condition where a foot has an excessively raised arch. Prone to ‘rolling’ when the heel lands on impact.

Mid sole

A cushioned area of a shoe or boot that provides shock absorption. Can be padded to correct orthotic issues such as fallen arches or flat feet, or can be less padded to allow the user to feel the terrain, such as with trail running shoes.

Neoprene

A strong synthetic rubber used in boots and other outdoor wear such as wellington boots to provide durability combined with flexibility

Neutral Footed

This is the ideal shape of foot that has no orthotic needs to correct. A person with a neutral gait will run without pronation.

Nylon

Nylon is a lightweight polymer set with heat during its creation, with the ability to withstand high temperatures and resist abrasion.

Nikwax Tech Wash

A non-detergent soap that will clean DWR coated fabrics without affecting it's water repellency.

Nikwax TX Direct Wash In

A wax-like elastomer suspended in water to reproof garments.

Nubuck Leather

A full-grain leather finished using a different process to make it cosmetically soft.

Outsole

The sole of the shoe that provides grip and protection.

Ortholite

A fabric made with polyurethane and recycled rubber used in shoes a year including shoes made by Merrell and Teva.

Orthotic Insole

These are technical/supportive Insoles

Ortholite

Ortholite are brand of orthotic insoles.

Phalanges

Bones that form the fingers and toes.

Phobic

Technology used in Berghaus footwear created with foam with an open cell moulded construction to release moisture.

Prontation

A type of gait of the foot which affects how you walk or run. Can be over pronating, or under pronating, where the foot rolls from the heel on landing either too far, or not far enough to the medial side of the foot (The area of the big toe).

QForm

A supportive midsole cushioning designed used within footwear. Designed for women by Merrell.

Rubber Rands

Areas of rubber on a shoe or boot that protect it, providing extra durability.

Reversed Full Grain Leather

Leather applied backwards with the shiny side face down to achieve a rough texture similar to suede. Reversed full grain is not as water repelling without treatment as a standard applied full grain leather.

Rock Shoes

Flexible rock shoes designed for use

Shank

Included in the midsole of technical walking boots or shoes in order to stabilize the foot and control the flex.Usually made from molded plastic the shank cradles the foot and is usually covered from direct contact by a liner.

Split Leather

The same as suede. A way of making leather soft to touch at the manufacturing stage.

Shock Absorption Pad

A pad used in shoe or boot construction, cushioned to absorb shock. The pad is typically made from synthetic such as EVA, polyurethane or a flexible rubber.

Sole

The bottom of a shoe that is in contact with the ground

Softshell

Toe Ridge

An area applied to a foot bed on a shoe such as a sandal, to increase the cushioning at the front. A toe ridge is slightly raised to provide a barrier against impact and also to hinder debris from entering the shoe's main body.

Transverse Arch

An area inside a shoe beneath the midsole which is the main point of contact with terrain. This is designed to absorb shocks to protect the wearer from joint and
ligament damage.

Three Ply GORE

GORE-Tex made in three layers. More durable as there is no friction on the actual membrane and it is completely protected

Tongues

Used in footwear under the shoe collar, these are usually padded for increased comfort next to the skin.

Vibram

A company who make a tough, springy rubber from a compound blend, designed primarily for footwear soles.

Water Channelling Systems

An inbuilt opening in shoes that allows water to run through and out.

Weatherproof

An item of clothing or gear that is either waterproof, windproof, breathable, or a variation of the 3, but not always all 3.

Winter Soles

Typically a thicker sole with deep grips on footwear to provide traction on winter conditions such as snow.

Wedge midSole

Used in shoes to provide shock absorption from hard terrain. Usually created from EVA foam.

Used on rucksacks and luggage. Climbing bags have less buckles to avoid snagging on rocks.

Buff

A multipurpose head band/ Neck gaiter designed from a seam free stretch fabric.

Burn time

Used in torches and lanterns. Refers to the length of time that the item will produce light, using it's standard power supply.

Cam

A spring loaded device used to hold ropes in climbing.

Crampon Compatible

A boot that can attach a crampon to its outer for use in climbing or ice walking.

Crampon pouch

A toughened flap or pouch on the front of a rucksack to allow crampons to be secured without damaging your rucksack.

Chalk

A phosphate used by climbers to aid grip on rockfaces.

Crag

A climbing area with boulders and multiple rock faces.

Crank Knobs

Used in climbing so an ice screw can be turned 360 degrees for increased grip.

D Shape Karabiner

A very light karabiner that forces the weight of the load onto the spine of the karabiner.

Denier

A method of measuring the density of a fibre, usually seen in Nylon. The higher the density, the thicker the fabric.

Diamond Crotch

A method of stitching a crotch in order to enhance motion and flexibility. Typically seen on ski wear as well as shorts and trousers designed for climbing.

Figure of 8

A belay device shaped like a figure of eight with one large and one small hole. Also known simply as an ‘8’.

Hitchlocks

Safety devices used to immobilise a caravan's hitch in orer to prevent theft

HMS Karabiners

Also known as Pear Shaped, these are ‘oversized’ Offset D shaped karabiners that allow you more space inside the gate for belaying, traditional or indoor
wall climbing.

Ice axe

A tool used when climbing or in general mountain walks to chip away at compacted ice. Can be stored in specific areas of a rucksack.

Ice screws

Screw in devices that are used to secure a climber. These are removed after use.

Ice Piton

A type of ice screw but with reverse teeth that can slot and pull.

Kryptonbulbs

Commonly found in headtorches

Maglite

A brand of torches created from materials used in high strength aircraft. Designed for the police, these are now used by campers and walkers.

Offset D Shape Karabiner

Exactly like a regular D shape karabiner but with a smaller end and a larger gate entrance to reduce weight.

Oval Karabiner

The original style of karabiner with a smooth and symmetric shape allowing room for shifting loads.

Rack

The name for climbing gear found on the harness and gear loops which may include items such as nuts, cams, hexs, quickdraws and karabiners.

Rubber Rands

Areas of rubber on a shoe or boot that protect it, providing extra durability.

Reversed Full Grain Leather

Leather applied backwards with the shiny side face down to achieve a rough texture similar to suede. Reversed full grain is not as water repelling without treatment as a standard applied full grain leather.

Rock Shoes

Flexible rock shoes designed for use

Screwgates

Used for setting up a karabiner. It is commonly used during belaying with a screw or a bolt that is turned and twisted manually.

Security pocket

A hidden pocket for storage of valuables.

Scrambling

Climbing which involves extreme hiking combined with boulders work.

Spotters

Term from climbing or bouldering used to refer to friends who watch as you climb to warn you of dangers.

Trad Climbing

Short for Traditional Climbing. A method of clipping your gear via a rack as you climb to create an individual, previously unmarked route.

Running

Anatomical

A design that intends to correct a bodily issue, typically seen in footwear or insoles, such as anatomically designed items that can help correct a pronating gait.

Anti Microbial Treatments

Sprayed onto the face fabric of a garment to prevent bacteria from forming.

Athletic cut

A shorter cut jacket that fits above the hips to allow flexibility and freedom of motion during active wear.

Contoured Footbed

A curved liner used in footwear that cushions the heel, arch and toes along the body of the shoe, providing overall shock absorption. Also provides anatomical suppport to correct an over or under pronating gait.

Breathe used in rucksacs. Perforated EVA is laminated in a honeycomb effect to allow different layers to breathe and allow air release and venting.

e-Vent

A coated breathable membrane made using pores. Sweat avoids the process of sweat being condensed and absorbed into the PU layer as with GORE-Tex

Ergonomically designed

Designed to fit with the shape of your body for the intended purpose.

Medial Post

The padded area at the side of a shoe that prevents the foot pronating as you walk or run. Sits at the Medial Side (Towards the big toe)

Metatarsal

The name for 5 bones found in the feet, within the toes or phalanges, and between the tarsal bones. Impact placed on the metatarsal bones can affect gait

Mid sole

A cushioned area of a shoe or boot that provides shock absorption.

Mid sole

A cushioned area of a shoe or boot that provides shock absorption. Can be padded to correct orthotic issues such as fallen arches or flat feet, or can be less padded to allow the user to feel the terrain, such as with trail running shoes.

Overpronaton

A style of running gait where the foot moves incorrectly from the heel to the ball, causing orthotic problems.

Supination

A type of running gait similar to pronation where the natural roll of the foot is warped.

Used on larger backpacks, allowing you to customise the distance between the shoulder straps and hip belt.

Anatomical

A design that intends to correct a bodily issue, typically seen in footwear or insoles, such as anatomically designed items that can help correct a pronating gait.

Bellows side pockets

Collapsible pockets used in bags as an alternative to fixed side pockets to give extra storage when deployed but with an option to be packed away.

Bioflex

Berghaus’s own range of back systems used in rucksacks with increase breathability.

Cinch cords

Found in rucksacks and daysacks, these allow you to decrease and increase a back pack’s size.

Day Packs

Small bags used when a lighter weight and storing capacity is required as opposed to a larger rucksack. Ideal for day trips, running and cycling use. Typically under 30 litres in capacity.

Frames

Built into rucksacks in order to elevate the pack away from the the back to increase breathability and air flow when used with a jacket.

Freeflow

Berghaus’s range of technological advancements in rucksack design to increase airflow an venting.

Haul Loops

Located on the front of a bag to allow it to be easily pulled if it is too heavy to carry.

Hydration Packs

Bags that include a removable and refillable drinking bladder an a drinking hose in order to rehydrate without needing to stop. Hydration systems can be inbuilt, or can be added to a hydration compatible bag at a lesser expense.

Hipbelts

Found on bags, these fit on the hips and provide torsional control.

Rack

The name for climbing gear found on the harness and gear loops which may include items such as nuts, cams, hexs, quickdraws and karabiners.

Side Compression Straps

Used to reduce rucksack bulk for storage or motion. Also aids balance.

Shoulder buckles

Used in rucksacks to allow for balance adjustment.

Stuff Sack/Stuff Sac

Usually provided with a jacket for storage when not in use. Many stuff sacks can also be worn as a bumbag at the front of the waist when not in use for
simple transportation.

Camping

Cold crack tested

Refers to tent windows which have been tested in their resistance to extreme weather conditions.

Box Wall

A type of sleeping bag where every compartment is like a box, with all walls perpendicular to each other.

Breathable/Breathability

A fabric’s ability to allow sweat and internal moisture to be released to the outer layers for evaporation.

Bivvy

A very small tent designed for one person only, used purely for sleeping in in emergency situations. Single skinned, made with Nylon and GORE-Tex or a similar mebrane and DWR coating, Bivvis are resistant to water and snow, but are still at risk of dampness caused by condensation forming on the inner layer.

Burn time

Used in torches and lanterns. Refers to the length of time that the item will produce light, using it's standard power supply.

A hybrid torch between a LED Torch and a wind up torch, not requiring batteries.

Fly Only Pitching

A tent that can be pitched in two stages, meaning the shelter can be put up in a rush or the fly used on its own.

Formaldehyde

A chemical often used in toilet cleaners and bleaches for camping or caravanning.

Footprint

Used in a tent, a footprint provides ground insulation and moisture protection, keeping your tent dry for clean packing.

Geocaching

Searching for items using a handheld GPS, a method of orienteering first only US based, now in the UK.

Groundsheet

Also referred to as a footprint, this keeps your tent free from dirt and moisture and adds a level of insulation.

GPS

Global Positioning Systems. Also known as ‘Sat Nav’ Or Satellite Navigation

Iodine

Used as a chemical based treatment to purify water. Usually sold in droplet form with a pippette for measuring the correct amount.

Inverters

Enables your standard mains items to be used while camping or caravanning.

ITN

Insecticide Treated Nets. Mosquito nets treated with chemical such as Permethrin or Deltrathrin to kill mosquitoes on contact.

Incandescent

Used to describe a type of torch which is brighter than an LED

Jerry Can

A bottle used to transport water . Typically used during camping and caravanning trips when a water carrier such as an Aquaroll is too large.

Kerb Weight

Used in trailer/roof box fitting, refers to the weight of an empty car without luggage or people.

Maglite

A brand of torches created from materials used in high strength aircraft. Designed for the police, these are now used by campers and walkers.

Melamine

A type of plastic used in camping cookware and cutlery. Heat absorbing, so cannot be exposed to heat sources such as a microwave.

Memory Maps

Digital Mapping Software created by the Ordnance Survey used in conjunction with a GPS system and a PC or laptop.

Payload

Term used to in trailer/roofbox fitting. Refers to the weight of all the items that need to be accounted for and transported.

Pitching

The act of constructing a tent. Times can vary with pop ups which can pitch in seconds, to family tents which take longer.

Pitch area

The space required to pitch a tent measured in metres.

Pyrethoid

A chemical that kills mosquitoes. Used on nets or mosquito repelling clothing.

Propane

A gas designed for year round use. Works in most temperatures an is popular in camping an caravanning.

Screen

An inner tent wall, usually made fom mesh, to allow for ventilation and to provide a barrier from insects.

Slant Wall

A sleeping bag design where the walls are set at an angle providing better down distribution.

Sport Routes

Bolted cliffs or crags which are able to be climbed without the use of nuts, hexs or cams. Popular routes run along Europe.

Security Post

A post that creates a barrier on a caravan from towing or theft.

Sunscreen

Sun cream with an included Sun Protection factor, which filters out UV rays and their intensity- but doesn't block them as a sunblock does.

Sun Block

Total protection from UV rays in a cream formula. Often very thick and paste like, this blocks out all rays, making it ideal for children and those with sensitive skin.

Stand Up

Used in tents to indicate if you can stand within a tent or if it is only high enough to sleep in.

Tarpaulin

Also known simply as tarp, this is a waterproof canvas used in tents to protect the inner from wet or muddy ground.

Tunnel Tents

Tents designed in a tunnel shape, with multiple openings. Suitable for families and large parties. Resistant to poor weather, but requiring a longer pitch time and space.

Trickle Chargers
(Float Chargers)

A charger for a 12 volt battery left on to top the battery. Automatically activated.

Twelve Volt
(12v) Appliances

Fitted with two crocodile clips to a car battery or to a cigarette lighter, these can be used to charge up electrical items whilst camping or caravanning.

UV Rays

Ultra Violet (rays). Can refer to UVA, UVB, or UVC rays which all contribute to skin darkening, sunburn and increased risk of melanoma or skin cancers. A sunblock or a suncrean can help prevent this.

V Baffle

A sleeping bag construction using overlapping triangles, rather than boxes, to prevent movement of down.

Water Carrier

A device with handles and wheels used to transport large amounts of water when a jerry can is too small. Usually used by families or groups on a campsite or during caravanning. Aquaroll is a popular brand associated with camping. These can be refilled and emptied by hand, or used with a pump/filter system.

Horse Riding

BS EN 1384:1997

A British safety regulation for the safety of a horse riding helmet.

EPP (expanded polypropylene)

A foam used in helmet construction.

PAS 015:1994 and PAS 015:1998

Regulations for the safety of horse riding helmets.

Cycling

BS EN 1078:1997

A British safety regulation for the safety of a cycling helmet.

Cadence

A cycling term referring to how fast pedal rotations are, measured by the crank of the bicycle. Can be measured using a personal computer.

EPP (expanded polypropylene)

A foam used in helmet construction

Odometer

Used in personal training computers. Allows you to track how far you went in Kilometres or Miles

Skiing

Bib

The area that covers the lower chest in a pair of salopettes. Designed to be breathable, removable straps attach to the front of the bib to aid quick removal.

Braces

Used in salopettes for ski wear, braces attach trousers via 2 elasticated straps which in turn hook over the shoulders. These allow your legwear to fit closely all day without excess movement.

Drip Skirt

A design seen in jackets to provide a longer length at the back for rain protection.

Dropped Seat

A lower fitting Crotch on shorts or trousers for flexibility in active use. Also refers to salopettes where the crotch and derriere area can be opened without removing the whole garment.

Multimedia Point

A pocket that can fit a media system such as an MP3 Player. Most commonly a feature within skiing jackets.

Photochromic

Used in sunglasses and goggles. Refers to lenses that adapt to external light conditions.

Snow Skirt

An outer flap included in hardshell jackets, particularly in ski jackets to prevent snow from entering the jacket.

Spherical Lenses

Used in ski goggle construction where the surface of the lens has a vertical curve to help shield your eyes from reflected light from the snow.

VLT

Visible Light Transmission. A term used for goggles and sunglasses indicating the amount of light that can pass the lens. This can vary according to the lens colour, as well as the light conditions.

Cookies on the GO Outdoors website

We use cookies on our website to improve your shopping experience. If you continue without changing your settings we’ll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies on the GO Outdoors website. However if you would like, you can change your cookie settings at any time.